In short: Challenging course but worth doing In full: Knew this course was going to be tough and avoided looking at the profile before the race.

That long hill from 21 to 22 miles is a PB killer, would have been nice if we came into town the same way we went out for a fast downhill finish.

Finish was a bit weak. Would have been nicer to finish on the road, rather than turn off into the car park. Goody back not great perhaps they should charge a bit more and throw in the T-Shirt.Date of review: September 26, 2011

In short: Brilliant race, well organised could become a firm fixture in my race calendarIn full: More soft-road that off-road with a couple of tough hills thrown in for good measure. Great introduction to a trail marathon.

Not normally a fan of lap races as they become mind numbingly boring. However, the scenery was incredible.

The course was easy to follow and marshals seemed to be at all the points you could have gone wrong. Unlike other trail marathons if things had gone pear shaped there was enough people around that you would not have been in trouble.

Would have thought with the hills and the off road setting a PB was off the cards. However, some fast downhill and flat sections on gravel paths and well trodden tracks make it entirely possible. It was my second fastest marathon.

Only minor grips are, could have done with a water station at Robin Hood gate. The one at the top the hill seems too far away, and a few more toilets at the start finish.

Other than these a brilliant race and great value. Date of review: May 16, 2011

In short: Organisation as smooth as silk but race is as hard as nailsIn full: Probably in the top 10 of toughest marathons in the UK. Takes the word term "hilly" to a whole new level. However, don't let this put you off.

Organisation is would also rate it in the top 10 as would the friendliness. Get in trouble in this race and rather than pushing you off the course, others will help you out.

In short: Potential a great event shame about the poor organisationIn full: Could be so much better. Real nice route apart from the stupid run around the field, down the road over the foot bridge start and pointless loop bits at the end.

Poor organisation overall (lack of loos, water, marshalls) put a damper on the whole thing. Most pointless goody bag ever and a very poor medal left a very bad taste in the mouth. Date of review: September 13, 2010